A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pamukkale vs. Oxford for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Pamukkale or Oxford?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Pamukkale and Oxford can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pamukkale

Pamukkale is a striking, unique, and iconic town. Pamukkale is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping. See Pamukkale travel costs.

Oxford

Oxford is a historic, scholarly, and collegiate college town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come to Oxford because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Oxford travel costs.

Pamukkale and Oxford: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less charming
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Pamukkale or Oxford?

Both Oxford and Pamukkale have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Pamukkale is better known for its hiking, while Oxford is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Pamukkale is more touristy than Oxford and is known for its natural travertine terraces, thermal springs, and ancient ruins. Oxford is well known for being home to one of the world's most notable universities.

How is Pamukkale different from Oxford?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Oxford and Pamukkale. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pamukkale or Oxford?

Pamukkale
Oxford

Oxford is a great college town for its historical sights. However, Pamukkale is not known for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Oxford specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This town is filled with culture, history, and world class museums. Check out the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, Ashmolean Museum, or the Museum of Oxford.

Pamukkale offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Hierapolis Archaeology Museum is located within the ancient city of Hierapolis. It's housed in a former Roman bathhouse and displays an impressive collection of artifacts, including statues, sarcophagi, and other relics from Hierapolis, Laodicea, and other nearby ancient cities.


Is the Food Better in Pamukkale or Oxford? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pamukkale
Oxford

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Pamukkale and Oxford can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

Pamukkale is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The town has a number of restaurants and cafes that serve dishes like kebabs, meze platters, and pide (Turkish flatbread). Gözleme (a savory stuffed pancake) is a popular street food in the area, but there are also many of the most popular Turkish dishes available.

Oxford offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. In addition to the typical British pubs and fish and chips shops, you'll find a wide diversity of ethnic food around town. Thai, sushi, Indian, and more are common dining options. Head to the Oxford Covered Market to try a traditional British breakfast or have some delicious ice cream.

Is Pamukkale or Oxford Better for Nightlife?

Pamukkale
Oxford

Oxford is a great college town for its evening party scene. However, Pamukkale is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Oxford has something for everybody. As a college town, you'll find an active nightlife scene with trivia nights and plenty of parties. There are pubs around town where you can grab a drink or find out if there's a concert while you're in town.

Most people don't head to Pamukkale specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a quiet town in the evening. Some hotels host small social gatherings or cultural evenings which lets you connect with other travelers. For a more lively experience, nearby Denizli has a broader range of bars and clubs, but it requires a short trip.

Is Pamukkale or Oxford Better for Hiking?

Pamukkale
Oxford

Pamukkale is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Oxford is not a hiking destination.

Pamukkale has hiking trails worth exploring. The most popular trail leads through the travertine terraces, where visitors can walk barefoot across the warm, calcium-rich pools. You can also explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, which has pathways winding through the theater, necropolis, and other historical sites. For something a little more challenging, the surrounding countryside has trails through the hills that lead to impressive viewpoints.

Oxford is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Pamukkale or Oxford?

Pamukkale
Oxford

If you're looking to go shopping, Pamukkale and Oxford both offer plenty of notable spots.

Pamukkale has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of souvenir shops around town where you can buy local crafts or trinkets. You'll find Turkish towels and carpets, dried spices, herbs, and teas. Many shops also sell Diorama stones and miniature travertine sculptures.

Oxford is a great destination for shopping. Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.

Is Pamukkale or Oxford More Beautiful?

Pamukkale
Oxford

Oxford is an amazing college town to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Pamukkale is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Oxford because of it's amazing beauty. The history and architecture make this a beautiful destination.

Pamukkale is a gorgeous place to visit. It is considered to be one of Turkey's most unique natural wonders. The white travertine terraces, which are filled with turquoise thermal waters, create an other-worldly landscape.

Is Pamukkale or Oxford Better for Families?

Pamukkale
Oxford

Pamukkale is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Pamukkale is a very family-friendly destination. Kids and adults alike will enjoy visiting the unique Travertine Terraces. Taking a dip in Cleopatra's Pool, with its sunken Roman columns, is also a highlight, and fans of the Percy Jackson series will appreciate visiting the ancient ruins at Hierapolis.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Oxford. Families will enjoy taking a paddle boat out on the water and exploring the beautiful setting. There are also a number of sights that were influential in the making of Harry Potter. In particular, you'll find the inspiration for the "Great Hall" if you take a tour of Christ Church College. The tour must be booked in advance and they often sell out. Older kids will also enjoy exploring the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.


Is Pamukkale or Oxford Better for Couples?

Pamukkale
Oxford

Both Pamukkale and Oxford are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Pamukkale is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples can enjoy many romantic settings, such as wandering through the impressive white travertine terraces, swimming in Cleopatra's Pool surrounded by ancient Roman columns, and exploring the ancient city of Hierapolis.

Oxford is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beautiful campus and striking architecture make this a great destination for romance. Hire a boat and explore the water or wander through one of the impressive gardens.

Is Pamukkale or Oxford Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pamukkale
Oxford

Pamukkale is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Oxford is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Pamukkale is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Food and activities are convenient and accessible around town. There are also many affordable hostels and plenty of opportunities to meet other travelers.

Oxford is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town that offer affordable accommodation. As a college town, Oxford also has an active nightlife scene and a young crowd that keeps things affordable and fun.

Is Pamukkale or Oxford Better for Students?

Pamukkale
Oxford

Oxford is an amazing college town to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Pamukkale is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Oxford. At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

Pamukkale is not popular with students.


Is Pamukkale or Oxford Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pamukkale
Oxford

Pamukkale and Oxford both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Pamukkale offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Minibuses (dolmuş) are the primary mode of local transportation, connecting Pamukkale to nearby towns like Denizli, where the main bus and train stations are located. From Denizli, frequent minibuses run to Pamukkale.

Oxford has a few public transit options. There are buses available if your legs get tired.

Is Pamukkale or Oxford a more walkable city?

Pamukkale
Oxford

Pamukkale and Oxford are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Pamukkale is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and very walkable, especially within the main tourist areas. The travertine terraces and the adjacent ancient city of Hierapolis are easy to explore on foot as well.

Oxford is very walkable. The best way to explore most of the town is on foot, so you can soak up the full collegiate atmosphere.

For even more information, also check out Is Pamukkale Worth Visiting? and Is Oxford Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oxford or Pamukkale?

How long in Pamukkale or Oxford?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pamukkale and Oxford. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Oxford than in Pamukkale. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Pamukkale, and 1-3 days is enough time in Oxford.

Families should spend more time in Pamukkale than Oxford. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Pamukkale, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Oxford than Pamukkale. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Oxford that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pamukkale than Oxford if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Pamukkale.


  • How many days in Pamukkale or Oxford? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pamukkale 1-2 
    Oxford 1-3

One day in Pamukkale or Oxford?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Pamukkale. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Even though Oxford is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oxford has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Pamukkale or Oxford?

Pamukkale is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Oxford is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this college town has to offer. This college town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Pamukkale or Oxford?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pamukkale. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Oxford is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Pamukkale or Oxford?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the unique destination of Pamukkale. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Oxford is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Turkey, The Best G Adventures Tours to Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Oxford or Pamukkale?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Pamukkale Prices
    Turkey Prices
    Oxford Prices
    UK Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Pamukkale $162
    Oxford $219

The average daily cost (per person) in Pamukkale is $162, while the average daily cost in Oxford is $219. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Pamukkale and Oxford in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pamukkale $44
    Oxford $98
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pamukkale $88
    Oxford $196
Compare Hotels in Pamukkale and Oxford

Looking for a hotel in Pamukkale or Oxford? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Pamukkale


Hotels in Oxford


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Pamukkale Hotel Prices and Oxford Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pamukkale $28
    Oxford $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pamukkale

Also for Pamukkale, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Denizli Pamukkale Airport Transfer Service: $108
  • Paragliding Tour w/ Scenic Views & Hotel Transfer: $73
  • Pamukkale Saraykoy Hotels to Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers: $119
  • Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon w/Flight Certificates,Champagne Toast & Hotel Transfer: $121
  • Pamukkale - Karahayit Transfer from Denizli Cardak Airport: $78
  • Gumbet Turkish Bath with hotel transfer and Oil massage: $38
  • Denizli City Hotels to Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers: $149
  • Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers to Pamukkale Saraykoy Hotels: $114
  • Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers to Denizli City Hotels: $114
  • Denizli Airport Transfer to Pamukkale (Private): $141
  • City of Pamukkale/Denizli: Antalya Center Private Transfer: $244
  • Antalya/Belek/Lara: Land Of legends Night Show Transfer: $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oxford

Also for Oxford, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Oxford To Stansted Airport Private Transfer: $290
  • Oxford To Gatwick Airport Private Transfer: $280
  • Portsmouth Cruise Terminals to London Private Transfer: $273
  • London and Oxford Private Transfer Service: $257
  • Portsmouth Port to Heathrow Airport Transfer: $255
  • Gatwick Airport Transfer To & From London Hotel Meet & Greet: $245
  • Oxford To Luton Airport Private Transfer: $240
  • Oxford To London Heathrow Airport (LHR ) - Departure Private Transfer: $221
  • Oxford City to London Heathrow Airport Private Transfer Service: $210
  • Oxford to Birmingham Airport Private Transfer: $210
  • Oxford to Heathrow Airport private transfers: $164
  • Fareham to Southampton Airport (SOU) - Departure Private Transfer: $105

Is it cheaper to fly into Pamukkale or Oxford?

Prices for flights to both Oxford and Pamukkale change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Pamukkale $94
    Oxford $96

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pamukkale $42
    Oxford $26
Typical Entertainment Prices in Pamukkale

For Pamukkale, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Entrance fees Travertines & Pool
    $1.57

Tours and Activities in Pamukkale

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Pamukkale.

  • Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon Tours: $179
  • 6 Day Antalya, Fethiye, Pamukkale, Ephesus Tour: $325
  • Antalya: Full-Day Pamukkale Tour: $88
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $66
  • Daily Guided Pamukkale Tour included Pick Up from Denizli Airport: $100
  • Daily Pamukkale Tour From Denizli Çardak Aırport: $131
  • Daily Pamukkale Tour with Pick up from Denizli Bus station: $114
  • Experince Gyrocopter Tour over Pamaukkale & Hierapolis: $131
  • From Antalya or Kemer: Full-Day Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour: $41
  • From Antalya: Daily Pamukkale Tour with Expert Local Guide: $133
  • From Antalya: Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour with Lunch: $47
  • From Izmir: Hierapolis and Pamukkale Tour with Guide: $300

Tours and Activities in Oxford

For Oxford, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hour Shared Family Walking Tour in Whitefield Moor: $14
  • Cotswolds Hidden Gems Tour by Coach from Oxford: $121
  • London to Oxford Day Tour incl Christ Church and Bodleian: $170
  • Oxford : University Tour: $89
  • Tunbridge Wells Axe Throwing Experience: $29
  • 1.5-hour Oxford City and University Walking Tour: $38
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Oxford With University Alumni Guide: $170
  • 90 Minute Classic Walking Tour of Oxford : $35
  • A Guide to the City of Dreaming Spires: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Oxford: $15
  • Afternoon Tea Sightseeing River Cruise in Oxford: $74
  • Ashmolean Museum Tour - by Uncomfortable Oxford™: $27
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $108

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pamukkale $11
    Oxford $28

Sample the Local Flavors in Oxford

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Oxford:

  • Private Wine Tour of Margate: $130
  • Chilterns Blue Line Wine Tour Explore Boutique Vineyards: $136
  • Wine Tours of Kent Private group booking: $259


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pamukkale and Oxford, we can see that Oxford is more expensive. And not only is Pamukkale much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Pamukkale would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pamukkale and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Oxford would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Oxford than you might in Pamukkale.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Pamukkale Expensive? and Is Oxford Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Pamukkale or Oxford?

Oxford has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Pamukkale. When comparing the sizes of Pamukkale and Oxford, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Pamukkale or Oxford?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Pamukkale or Oxford in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Pamukkale and Oxford. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pamukkale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oxford for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pamukkale is much warmer than Oxford. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pamukkale in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Oxford averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In Pamukkale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pamukkale usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during summer. Pamukkale gets 356 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Pamukkale usually receives less rain than Oxford. Pamukkale gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pamukkale 28°C (82°F) 
    Oxford 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Oxford in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Pamukkale as well as Oxford. Many travelers come to Pamukkale for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Oxford in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Pamukkale is generally much warmer than Oxford. Daily temperatures in Pamukkale average around 19°C (67°F), and Oxford fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pamukkale this time of the year. In the autumn, Pamukkale often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Pamukkale gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 107 hours of full sun.

Pamukkale usually gets less rain in October than Oxford. Pamukkale gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pamukkale 19°C (67°F) 
    Oxford 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Oxford in the Winter?

Both Oxford and Pamukkale are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Pamukkale in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Oxford for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Oxford can be very cold during winter. Pamukkale is much warmer than Oxford in the winter. The daily temperature in Pamukkale averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Oxford fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Pamukkale usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during winter. Pamukkale gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Pamukkale. In January, Pamukkale usually receives more rain than Oxford. Pamukkale gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pamukkale 9°C (48°F) 
    Oxford 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Oxford in the Spring?

Both Oxford and Pamukkale during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Pamukkale for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Oxford because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Pamukkale is much warmer than Oxford. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pamukkale in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Oxford averages at about 9°C (48°F).

It's quite sunny in Pamukkale. In the spring, Pamukkale often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Pamukkale gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 147 hours of full sun.

Pamukkale usually gets more rain in April than Oxford. Pamukkale gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pamukkale 17°C (62°F) 
    Oxford 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Oxford and Pamukkale

Pamukkale Oxford
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 52 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 21°C (70°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jun 26°C (78°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 10°C (51°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)